LOCAL LOVE: Cherry Blossoms in High Park

Hey guys!  So I love exploring my neighbourhood, and there are tons of local gems that I think the world (ahem.. the internet) ​should hear about.  So I have decided to introduce a LOCAL LOVE feature.  Maybe it's the best brunch spot in The Junction, the best place to get a craft beer in the West End, or a cute little boutique filled with the best knick knacks - I love my neighbourhood, and I want to share it with you (because I think you'll love it too)!

As I mentioned yesterday, I've been on quite the cherry blossom kick this past week.  I'm pretty sure the whole city has (at least according to everyone's instagram photos).  So I thought, what better way to begin LOCAL LOVE​, than with the Japanese Cherry Blossom (or Sakura) trees in Toronto's High Park?

About a 10 minute walk from my apartment door, High Park is located in Toronto's West End.  It is Toronto's largest public park, and is home to a small zoo, lots of green space, pools, a HUGE leash free zone/trail for dogs, a restaurant, much more + of course the Sakura trees!

Apparently the first Japanese Cherry tree planted in High Park was given as a gift by the citizens of Tokyo in 1959!  Another fun fact, the cherry blossoms are edible... Mmm...  I haven't tried them, but I'm sure they are light and fragrant, and would make the perfect addition to a springtime cocktail, beverage or confection. The cherry blossom is a symbol of femininity, elegance, and the fragility of life.  There's something really beautiful about that...

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Thanks to my lovely photographer friend, Chloe Norman for the photo of me!  The other two are my own photos.

NAIL ART: Cherry Blossom & Gold Sparkle Gel Nails

I've been a little MIA this week, I know... But I'm here now!  This week I've been feeling super inspired by the arrival of the cherry blossom blooms!  High Park in Toronto has a cherry blossom festival every year, and I had the pleasure of visiting the park yesterday to enjoy the lovely little flowers.

​I visited a salon to have my nails done over the weekend.  If you know me - this is a BIG deal.. haha.  A VERY rare occurrence in my life. My nails were never long enough that I thought they warranted a manicure.  But you know what - they totally do.  

​As a maker/artist/designer/illustrator, I work with my hands everyday, all day.  And as I stare at them now as I type this - I can't help but smile!  I love the rounded shape, and the length (even though they are just a tad too long.. hehe)!

​I'm not sure what the light pink colour is, but the gold is OPI Skyfall Goldeneye!

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